Award-winning Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa's eagerly awaited new dining area - the extended and completely refitted Verandah Bar - is now open, and is already a huge hit with guests at the Leicestershire-based spa.

Not only has the previous dining area been extended significantly, but a new, larger bar area and kitchen have been installed, with new furniture and bespoke lighting completing the transformation. And the finishing touches are being made to the exciting al fresco area, including some 'feature pieces', which will be ready for the start of the warmer weather.

But it's not just the surroundings impressing guests, as new menus have also been launched. Ragdale's Executive Head Chef has carefully put together a range of choices, with the extended evening selection in particular featuring his take on top quality 'gastro-pub' inspiration. Crab cakes, pulled pork, sea bass and chicken all get the Ragdale twist, as do vegetarian choices and a selection of irresistible sweets.Once again Ragdale has commissioned local companies to carry out the work wherever possible; the interior design of the Verandah Bar is by Leicestershire-based Liz Millington, who is responsible for the majority of Ragdale's striking and highly regarded interior design. The tones used throughout complement the wallpaper, which is called Romo Pleasure Gardens and was the first element of the design - inspiring the whole look of the area.

The elegantly curved bar is by cabinet makers, Barrett and Swann from nearby Cropwell Butler in Nottinghamshire (who have previously made the Garden Room Bar, Reception desks and buffet and service furniture in the Dining Room). The front of the bar features a subtly shimmering surface called 'Pearlamina', making its Ragdale debut.

Two stunning handmade glass pendants by Derbyshire company Curiousa & Curiousa in the soft pastel colours of the rest of the furnishings feature in the new area, with matching glass shades over the bar. An eclectic mix of new lounging and dining furniture completes the look.

The Verandah Bar offers a range of hot and cold beverages, smoothies, and a daytime menu of snacks, light choices and desserts, along with the new substantial evening menu. The commitment to sourcing local products also includes special tea and coffee blends from St.Martin's of Leicester and wine from nearby Rothley Wine Ltd.

Guests on selected spa day packages, including the new Evening Spa Experience which launched this week (1st March), will enjoy daytime or evening dining in the Verandah Bar as part of their visit.